Across 10 days, from March 11 to 20, Enniskillen was a hive of activity as the first post-lockdown festival of its kind came to town, offering a wide variety of entertainment to local audiences.
Pitching a Big Top tent in the grounds of Enniskillen Castle, 'Live at The Castle' was a circus of activity, as organisers DM Events, in conjunction with Enniskillen BID, brought together an eclectic programme of acts ranging from well-loved local bands and artists to international DJs.
The festival kicked off on Friday, March 11 with the ‘I am a Raver’ Dance music event. Hosted by Bad Boy and featuring a number of top DJs including DJ Rankin and DJ Cammy, the event was a big hit with Dance music lovers from near and far, who raved the night away as the beats dropped.
On Saturday night, March 12, Live at The Castle welcomed Europe’s number-one Queen tribute band, Qween, to the Big Top, with special guests The Human Touch – Ireland’s top tribute to ‘The Boss’ himself, Bruce Springsteen, and his E Street Band.
Sunday night, March 13, saw acclaimed Northern Irish singer-songwriter Ryan McMullan headline, with support from Donegal musician John Doherty, and a solo set from Kiel Cathers, a member of popular Tyrone band, The Logues.
On Monday night, March 14, members of local writing group the Fermanagh Writers shared their original works. Scott Ramsey delighted the audience with his guitar skills.
Live at The Castle also hosted a two-day 'St. Paddy's Fest' with the Whistlin' Donkeys headlining on Wednesday night, kicking off celebrations on the eve of St. Patrick's Day, and The Logues headlining on St. Patrick's Day itself, March 17.
Special guests over the two days included Aoife Cathcart, The Porter Bellys, The Tumbling Paddies, The Hand me Downs, and The Blarneys.
Friday night, March 18, was Key Workers Appreciation Night – a free evening of live music in celebration of those who went above and beyond throughout the pandemic.
Talented local singer-songwriter Conor Phillips opened the special event with a mix of covers and original songs.
He was followed by Band 5&6 (the NI Ambulance Service (NIAS) band), who delighted the audience with a number of upbeat tunes.
On the night, the band members, who are all NIAS paramedics, performed their original song, 'Make It Count'. The song is now available to download from various music sites, with proceeds going towards ambulance-related charities.
Popular singer Jake Carter headlined the night. With his catchy-pop songs, he had the small but enthusiastic crowd singing and dancing along.
Ibiza came to Enniskillen on Saturday night, March 19, as saxophone and DJ duo Lovely Laura and Ben Santiago brought the heat with their captivating show. They were followed by German Dance project, Italo Brothers, who made their Irish debut.
The final day of Live at the Castle was JustUs, a day of activities specially tailored for disabled adults. There was a great buzz as performers on the day, Country star Johnny Brady and Westlife/Take That tribute act, Back For Good, entertained those in attendance, closing out the festival in style.
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